[뉴스로드] Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC), the world’s leading semiconductor foundry, has announced a strategic shift in its 2-nanometer (nm) production line, opting to exclude Chinese manufacturing equipment. This move comes as a preemptive measure to mitigate potential disruptions in light of expected stringent regulations from the United States on Chinese-made equipment. According to a report by the Nikkei on August 25, TSMC's decision reflects growing geopolitical tensions and the company's strategic foresight to align with international compliance standards.
TSMC plans to initiate mass production of its 2nm process products in Hsinchu, northern Taiwan, before expanding production to facilities in Kaohsiung, southern Taiwan, and Arizona, United States. The company has traditionally utilized equipment from Chinese semiconductor equipment firm Advanced Micro-Fabrication Equipment Inc. (AMEC) and Mattson Technology, a US-based company under Chinese ownership. However, TSMC's recent pivot underscores a significant shift in sourcing strategy, prioritizing stability and regulatory compliance.
The exclusion of Chinese equipment from TSMC's 2nm production line is part of a broader investigation into minimizing reliance on Chinese-made materials and equipment. This strategic move is influenced by legislative developments in the US, where a bill was introduced last year to ban the use of Chinese equipment in American factories constructed with CHIPS Act funding. TSMC's Arizona plant, being built with US government subsidies, exemplifies the company's alignment with such regulatory landscapes.
This development follows TSMC's previous contemplation of removing Chinese-made equipment from its 3nm production line, a decision that was postponed due to various operational considerations. The current exclusion reflects TSMC's proactive approach in navigating the complex geopolitical and economic environment.
The semiconductor giant's decision highlights the ongoing decoupling in the global tech supply chain, driven by national security concerns and the desire for technological sovereignty. As US-China tensions persist, TSMC's strategic realignment may set a precedent for other companies operating within similar regulatory frameworks.
TSMC's actions demonstrate the intricate balancing act companies must perform to adhere to regulatory demands while maintaining operational efficiency and global competitiveness. The company's commitment to reducing its dependency on Chinese technology could have far-reaching implications for the semiconductor industry, potentially influencing supply chain dynamics and competitive strategies across the sector.
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